Lead-based paint remains a significant health concern in New York City, particularly in older buildings. With Local Law 31 enforcing stricter regulations, property owners must stay informed to ensure compliance and avoid substantial penalties. This guide provides NYC landlords and property managers with essential information about lead paint laws in 2025.​

What is Local Law 31?

Enacted to protect residents—especially children—from lead poisoning, Local Law 31 mandates landlords to conduct lead inspections and remediation in residential buildings constructed before 1960. The law also applies to buildings built between 1960 and 1978 if lead-based paint is known to be present.​NYC Lead Inspections+1greenorchardgroup.com+1

Key Provisions of Local Law 31 (2025 Updates):

• Lead Testing Requirements: Landlords must conduct an XRF (X-ray fluorescence) lead inspection of all dwelling units and common areas by August 9, 2025, or within one year if a child under six resides in the unit. ​Lew Environmental+2greenorchardgroup.com+2Partner Engineering and Science, Inc.+2
• Certification & Compliance: Inspections must be performed by an EPA-certified inspector. Results should be documented and maintained for at least ten years, ready for submission to the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) upon request. ​Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York
• Remediation & Lead Abatement: If lead is detected, landlords must remediate the issue using safe and compliant lead removal techniques to prevent exposure. ​
• Record-Keeping: Property owners are required to maintain inspection and remediation records for at least ten years to demonstrate compliance and avoid fines.

Who is Affected by NYC’s Lead Paint Laws?

• Landlords & Property Owners of pre-1960 buildings (or pre-1978 if known to have lead-based paint).​
• Property Managers overseeing residential rentals.​
• Tenants with Children under six years old, as the law prioritizes protecting young residents.​

Failure to comply can result in fines up to $10,000 per violation, making it essential for landlords to stay ahead of requirements. ​

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Health Risks Associated with Lead Exposure

Lead is a harmful metal that can cause serious health problems, especially for young children and pregnant individuals. Exposure to lead can result in:​Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York+1Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York+1Wrsh Law

• Learning and behavior problems​Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York
• Reduced IQ​NYC Lead Inspections+22US EPA+22greenorchardgroup.com+22
• Hearing issues​The Habitat Group+9New York State Department of Health+9YouTube+9
• Slowed growth and development​TFAH+9US EPA+9New York State Department of Health+9

For more detailed information on the health effects of lead exposure, visit the NYC Health Department’s Lead Poisoning Prevention page. ​Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York+1New York State Department of Health+1

How to Ensure Compliance with NYC Lead Paint Laws

Step 1: Schedule an XRF Lead Inspection

Hire an EPA-certified lead inspector to conduct an XRF inspection for accurate results. It’s crucial to use certified professionals to ensure the inspection meets legal standards. ​

Step 2: File Results with HPD

All test results must be documented and submitted to NYC’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) to prove compliance. Starting August 1, 2025, owners will be required to submit records of XRF-test analyses in dwelling units and common areas. ​gibbonslawalert.com+1Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York+1

Step 3: Lead Abatement & Remediation (If Required)

If lead is detected, remediation must be completed using safe lead removal techniques, such as encapsulation, replacement, or professional paint removal. For detailed guidance on lead-safe renovation practices, refer to the EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program. ​US EPA+2US EPA+2New York State Department of Health+2

Step 4: Maintain Records for 10+ Years

Keeping inspection reports and remediation documentation ensures compliance and helps avoid future penalties. HPD recommends that owners apply for an Exemption for all apartments and common areas that test negative or for which the property owner abates all lead-based paint surfaces. ​Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York+1The Habitat Group+1

Benefits of Obtaining Lead Exemption Status

Achieving a Lead-Free or Lead-Safe Exemption can significantly benefit property owners by:​

• Reducing Compliance Costs: Minimizing the need for ongoing inspections and potential remediation expenses.​
• Avoiding Penalties: Ensuring adherence to legal requirements and preventing fines.​
• Enhancing Property Value: Demonstrating a commitment to tenant safety and property maintenance.​

The HPD has introduced an online portal to streamline the lead exemption application process, making it more accessible for property owners. ​The Habitat Group

At Lead and Mold Detectives, we specialize in helping NYC landlords achieve lead-free exemption status, ensuring long-term compliance and peace of mind.

Get Help with Lead Paint Compliance Today!

Staying compliant with NYC’s evolving lead paint laws is crucial for avoiding fines and protecting tenants. Lead and Mold Detectives provides expert XRF lead inspections, remediation services, and exemption filing assistance to keep your property compliant.

📞 Contact us today to schedule your lead inspection and secure compliance for 2025!

🔗 Visit our website for more details!

Meta Title: NYC Lead Paint Laws 2025 | Compliance Guide for Property Owners​

Meta Description: Stay updated on NYC’s lead paint laws for 2025. Learn about Local Law 31 compliance, inspection requirements, remediation techniques, and how to avoid penalties.